You can actually stay within the Alhambra at the splendid converted San Francisco monastery (C/Real de la Alhambra, 958 221 440, www.parador.es, €250-€375), but it’s pricey, and the number of rooms is limited – you’ll need to book well in advance. Downtown, the boutique Palacio de los Patos hotel (Solarillo de Gracia 1, 958 535 790, www.hospes.es, €160), a beautifully refurbished 19th-century former consulate, is a newly opened five-star property. Another new boutique, the four-star Palacio de los Navas (C/Navas 1, 958 215 760, www.palaciodelosnavas.com, €120-€140) is quite not as luxurious as Patos, but is nevertheless a beautiful and tranquil place to stay.

Cheaper options include Casa del Aljarife (Placeta de la Cruz Verde 2, 958 222 425, €91) right in the Albaicín. More affordable are the cute Hostal La Ninfa (Cocheras de San Cecilio 9, 958 227 985, www.hostallaninfa.net, €52) and Hostal Meridiano (C/Angulo 9, 958 250 544, www.hostalmeridiano.com, €29-€36), just off lovely Plaza Trinidad.

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